Within the framework of the cooperation between Azerbaijan Technical University (AzTU) and “Dithari Technologies” company, the DISC (Digital Innovation, Sustainability & Circularity) Innovation and Sustainability Laboratory has started its operation at the university.

The goal is to develop digital innovation, circular economy and sustainable IT fields, as well as to form an accessible and open practical environment in these areas for students, faculty and the general public.

The new laboratory creates teaching and research opportunities on e-waste reduction, recovery and reuse of IT equipment, green technologies and sustainable production models. The DISC laboratory will play the role of an open platform that can be used not only by AzTU students and employees, but also by specialists working in this direction and people interested in the mentioned field.

At the opening ceremony of the laboratory, it was noted that the commissioning of the laboratory strengthens the sustainable development and digital transformation strategy at the university, improves the practical skills of students and expands cooperation between industry and academia. It was emphasized that this initiative will contribute to the development of environmentally responsible innovations in the country.

The laboratory will provide practical training in e-waste recycling and equipment recovery, educational and research projects on circular IT and sustainable technologies, innovation and incubation support for student and startup teams, pilot projects and workshops with industry partners, thematic meetings and trainings for experts in the field and the public.

It should be noted that the activities of the DISC laboratory are in line with a number of points of the UN Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Innovative teaching and practical exercises for students.

SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Development and application of new technological solutions.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: Reduction of e-waste and circular IT models.

SDG 13 – Combating Climate Change: Promotion of green approaches and environmental responsibility.